Vancouver leaders are urging C-TRAN to consider fixed rail infrastructure throughout the city. Councilor Erik Paulsen, a member of the C-TRAN Board of Directors, made a passionate plea for the transportation provider to look into fixed rail projects. Paulsen’s suggestions came after C-TRAN staff discussed the organization’s 20-year plan, which did not include fixed rail as an option.

Fixed Rail and Economic Growth

Paulsen believes that fixed rail infrastructure could inspire an economic boom in Vancouver. He noted that transit-oriented development is a huge opportunity, and that fixed rail is what really kickstarts development because developers know that a fixed line cannot be moved. Paulsen pointed to the forecasted growth for Clark County and the city of Vancouver by 2050, with some estimates suggesting the city population could reach 300,000 people.

Paulsen suggested that the city could explore options for rail, including a tram or trolley that circulates in a circle. He noted that existing Vine stops already have the floor height to support tram conversion. Other board members, including Kim Harless and Sue Marshall, expressed interest in exploring options for rail.

Next Steps

The C-TRAN board will continue to be involved in the process of finalizing the 2045 plan. The board hopes to schedule another workshop for next month, with the goal of adopting the plan by the end of the year. Any future decisions on high-capacity transit would still go through a separate review and approval process.

Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.